For independent gym owners, boutique studio operators, and gym entrepreneurs, relying solely on membership fees can be risky. A well-run gym should diversify its revenue streams to maximize profitability and create financial stability.
One of the most effective ways to increase revenue without adding more members is by introducing secondary revenue streams such as retail sales, supplements, merchandise, and additional services. These offerings not only boost profits but also enhance member experience, build brand loyalty, and create a sense of community.
This article will explore how to set up and market additional revenue streams to turn your gym into a profit-generating powerhouse.
The Power of Secondary Revenue Streams in the Gym Business
Diversifying your income is essential for long-term success. Gyms with strong secondary revenue streams can increase their total revenue by 20-50% without adding a single new member.
Why Secondary Revenue is Critical for Gyms:
✅ Boosts revenue per member – You earn more from each customer, increasing profitability.
✅ Strengthens brand loyalty – Members who invest in your supplements, apparel, or training packages feel more connected to your brand.
✅ Creates financial stability – When memberships fluctuate, secondary revenue can help keep cash flow steady.
✅ Enhances the member experience – Members appreciate the convenience of purchasing products that complement their fitness journey.
Now, let’s explore the most effective secondary revenue streams and how to implement them successfully.
1. Retailing Supplements: A High-Profit Gym Revenue Stream
The sports nutrition market is expected to reach $81.5 billion by 2026. Your members are already buying supplements elsewhere—why not capture some of that revenue?
Best Supplements to Sell in Your Gym
✔️ Protein Powders (Whey, Plant-Based, Casein)
✔️ Pre-Workout & Energy Boosters
✔️ BCAAs & Recovery Supplements
✔️ Creatine & Performance Enhancers
✔️ Hydration & Electrolyte Mixes
✔️ Daily Vitamins & Multivitamins
How to Set Up a Supplement Retail Business in Your Gym
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Choose the Right Supplier:
- Work with reputable brands that align with your gym’s mission.
- Consider private labeling your own supplement line for higher profit margins and brand recognition.
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Set Up an Eye-Catching Display:
- Use a small but visible space at the front desk or near the exit.
- Offer samples to let members try before they buy.
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Train Your Staff to Sell Supplements:
- Educate your team on the benefits of each product so they can recommend the right ones to members.
- Use a consultative approach rather than pushy sales tactics.
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Use Subscription Models & Auto-Renewal Discounts:
- Offer members discounted rates for monthly supplement subscriptions to create recurring revenue.
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Promote Supplements on Social Media & Email Campaigns:
- Share success stories from members using supplements.
- Run limited-time bundle deals (e.g., “Buy 2, Get 1 Free”).
2. Gym Merchandise: Boost Your Brand & Your Bottom Line
Branded merchandise not only generates extra income but also turns your members into walking advertisements for your gym.
What Merch Should Your Gym Sell?
✔️ T-Shirts & Tank Tops – High-quality, stylish, and comfortable
✔️ Hoodies & Sweatshirts – Perfect for cooler seasons and post-workout comfort
✔️ Gym Shorts & Leggings – Branded activewear appeals to fitness enthusiasts
✔️ Hats & Beanies – Popular, low-cost items with good profit margins
✔️ Shaker Bottles & Water Bottles – Every gym-goer needs hydration gear
✔️ Gym Bags & Backpacks – Stylish and practical
✔️ Sweat Towels – Essential for every workout
How to Sell More Gym Merchandise
✅ Create Seasonal & Limited-Edition Drops:
- Introduce exclusive designs or seasonal collections to create excitement.
- Run pre-order campaigns for limited-edition merch to drive demand.
✅ Offer Merch Bundles with Membership Sign-Ups:
- “Join today & get a FREE exclusive gym T-shirt & shaker bottle!”
- “Upgrade to an annual membership & receive a branded hoodie + gym bag!”
✅ Sell Online with Local Pickup or Delivery:
- Set up a simple e-commerce shop where members can order merch and pick it up at the gym.
- Offer home delivery for high-value items like hoodies & gym bags.
✅ Use Social Proof & Influencers:
- Feature real members wearing your merch on social media.
- Get local fitness influencers or trainers to wear your gear.
3. Offering Additional Paid Services
Providing premium add-ons inside your gym increases per-member revenue and enhances the overall member experience.
Top Add-On Services to Increase Gym Revenue
✔️ Personal Training Packages – Offer one-on-one or small-group training with tiered pricing.
✔️ Nutrition Coaching – Sell meal plans & coaching as a premium service.
✔️ Recovery & Wellness Services – Introduce massage therapy, infrared saunas, or cryotherapy.
✔️ Fitness Challenges & Transformation Programs – Run paid group challenges to encourage participation.
✔️ Exclusive Member-Only Classes – Offer VIP classes not included in basic memberships.
Marketing Additional Services Inside Your Gym
✅ Bundle Services with Memberships:
- “Sign up for 6 months & get a FREE personal training session.”
- “Buy 10 PT sessions & get 1 FREE recovery massage.”
✅ Promote via Email & Social Media:
- Showcase client success stories & testimonials.
- Offer early-bird pricing for new programs.
✅ Use Limited-Time Offers:
- “First 10 people to sign up for personal training get a bonus session!”
- “Book a recovery session today & get 20% off supplements.”
Final Thoughts: Turn Your Gym Into a Profit-Generating Machine
To maximize profitability, every gym owner should think beyond memberships.
By adding supplements, retail, merch, and premium services, you can:
✔️ Increase revenue per member
✔️ Strengthen member loyalty & brand awareness
✔️ Reduce financial risk & reliance on membership fees
Key Takeaways for Boosting Gym Revenue:
✅ Start small with high-demand products (protein powders, pre-workout, branded T-shirts).
✅ Use strategic promotions & bundles to create urgency and drive sales.
✅ Train staff to make recommendations without being pushy.
✅ Leverage social media & email marketing to showcase your products.
By implementing these strategies, you can transform your gym into a high-profit fitness brand while providing more value to your members.
Now it’s time to take action—what new revenue stream will you launch first? Contact Jim here.
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Is Your Gym in Need of a Boost?
Whether you’re facing declining sales, need a fresh marketing strategy, require a complete business turnaround or ready to start a new gym, we’re here to help. With over 25 years of industry expertise, we offer a free initial consultation to explore solutions tailored to your unique challenges. Don’t wait—contact Jim Thomas at 214-629-7223, or gain immediate insights from our YouTube channel. Connect with us on LinkedIn. EMAIL NEWSLETTER. Join for FREE.
Meet Jim Thomas
Jim Thomas is the Founder and President of Fitness Management USA, Inc., a premier management consulting, turnaround, financing, and brokerage firm specializing in the leisure services industry. With over 25 years of hands-on experience owning, operating, and managing fitness facilities of all sizes, Jim is an outsourced CEO, turnaround expert, and author who delivers actionable strategies that drive results. Whether it’s improving gym sales, fostering teamwork, or refining marketing approaches, Jim has the expertise to help your business thrive. Learn more by visiting his website or YouTube channel.
